Scarlett Johansson, a renowned actress, stood up against the Golden Globes Awards amidst severe backlash. Despite her five nominations for the award, she exposed the inherent sexism culture of the Hollywood Foreign Press Association that hosted the event. She did not participate in it to avoid any discomfort caused by the practices carried out by the organization.
The Hollywood Foreign Press Association, which organizes the Golden Globes, has been criticized by actress Scarlett Johansson. In a statement to Variety, Johansson expressed her displeasure with the organization, stating that actors are expected to participate in press conferences and awards shows during awards season. However, Johansson revealed that she has refused to attend HFPA conferences in the past due to the sexist questions and comments made by some of its members, which bordered on sexual harassment.
In her statement, Scarlett Johansson brought to light the fact that the organization had gained credibility under the patronage of Harvey Weinstein. The actress who played Black Widow in the Marvel Cinematic Universe went on to say that the award ceremony has been honoring producers who have now been publicly shamed for their actions. She stated that the entertainment industry has followed the same path. Scarlett Johansson further added that until the organization undergoes a significant overhaul, she believes it’s time to distance ourselves from the HFPA and concentrate on the strength of unity within our unions and the industry as a whole.
The LA Times conducted an investigation revealing the significant financial and ethical issues within the HPVA, along with a discriminatory culture. Shockingly, none of the 87 members were African American, and the organization failed to include any Black members for over 20 years. Additionally, the President of the HFPA made derogatory comments about the Black Lives Matter movement, further highlighting the group’s problematic attitudes towards diversity and inclusion.
Afterwards, over 100 public relations representatives for Hollywood celebrities spoke out against the HPVA. They were adamant that if the organization didn’t make significant changes, they would no longer allow them to have access to their clients. This had a huge impact on the HFPA and played a major role in transforming its trajectory.
Several news portals have reported that the group implemented changes by increasing its members and appointing an executive who prioritizes diversity, equity, and inclusion.
